Butterflies and moths have an incredible way of helping plants reproduce using static electricity. Researchers from the University of Bristol discovered that as these insects fly, they accumulate electric charges on their bodies. When they get close to a flower, this charge creates an electric field strong enough to pull pollen across the air gap onto their bodies without any physical contact.

This phenomenon was demonstrated using advanced computer modeling, showing that the electric field generated by these insects can reach over 5,000 volts per meter. This force is sufficient to attract pollen grains from flowers and stick them to the insect's body, adding a new layer to our understanding of how pollination works in nature.

Different species of butterflies and moths carry varying levels of electrostatic charge, influenced by their size, habitat, and behavior. For instance, tropical species generally have lower charges compared to those from temperate regions, possibly as an adaptation to high humidity environments, which can reduce static charge accumulation.

This finding underscores the importance of butterflies and moths as pollinators, particularly for plants that depend on them for reproduction. It also raises interesting questions about how factors like predation and environmental conditions impact the electrostatic properties of these insects. Gaining insights into these mechanisms can help in the conservation of pollinators and the maintenance of healthy ecosystems.